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Should Premarital Screening for Blood Disorders be an Obligatory Measure in Oman?
Amal A Al-Balushi1, Budoor Al-Hinai1
1Directorate General of Primary Health Care, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman.
Insights
Mandatory premarital screening for hereditary blood disorders in Oman could reduce suffering and healthcare burdens. This approach addresses the high prevalence of conditions like sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia, despite potential social challenges.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Genetics
- Medical Policy
Background:
- Oman experiences a high prevalence of hereditary blood disorders, including sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia.
- Consanguineous marriages contribute significantly to the high incidence of these genetic conditions within the Omani population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and evaluate the feasibility of implementing mandatory premarital carrier screening for hereditary blood disorders in Oman.
- To consider the social and cultural obstacles associated with mandatory screening legislation.
Main Methods:
- This article presents a proposal based on existing epidemiological data and public health principles.
- It involves a qualitative discussion of potential implementation strategies and challenges.
Main Results:
- Implementing mandatory premarital screening could significantly decrease the incidence of hereditary blood disorders.
- Such a program has the potential to reduce the long-term burden on the national healthcare system.
Conclusions:
- Mandatory premarital screening is a viable strategy to mitigate hereditary blood disorders in Oman.
- Addressing social, cultural, and individual autonomy concerns is crucial for successful implementation.
Abstract:
Due to the high rate of consanguineous marriages in Oman, there is a correspondingly high prevalence of hereditary blood disorders, particularly sickle cell disease and β-thalassaemia. This article proposes the possibility of implementing mandatory premarital carrier screening for blood disorders in Oman, while giving due consideration to potential social and cultural obstacles. Although the implementation of such legislation would require collaboration between different sectors and may negatively affect the autonomy of certain individuals, mandatory premarital screening would help to alleviate the burden of hereditary blood disorders on the national healthcare system, as well as reduce avoidable suffering among carriers and their families.
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